'01 Caravan SE whining noise

[Kalidor]

Hello and good morning!

Now I've searched this forum about the problem I am experiencing and I am not sure that any of the posts I read really apply. So please excuse me if I am posting about something that has already been answered.

This Caravan has 68k miles and up until recently the whining noise I hear only happened when cold starting the car on a cold day. Just yesterday it also started to make some kind of a rattling sound in addition.

The original whining noise lasts only for a few seconds when cold starting, the new rattling sound also only happens when cold starting but lasts quite a bit longer (about 20 seconds). Can any of you advise me on what is going on with my vehicle?

[RIP]

What type engine? Only when you're standing still? Noises can be tough to pinpoint with hands on the car, let alone from miles away.

If you're hearing a chirping/bells/crickets noise (very common) under the hood it's likely the bearings in the idler pullies for the drivebelt. On my 96 I've changed each once (fixed and adjuster). For both the noise went away a few months then returned. I gave up on that game and have just lived with it for years.

One way to eliminate many possibilities is to remove the accessory drive belt and start the engine. If the noise is gone you know it's something driven by the drivebelt ie, A/C compressor, power steering pump, alternater, idler pullies, water pump, etc. Don't let it run for more than a few minutes. You'll drain the battery and eventually overheat.

If the noise is still there with the belt removed, could be something in the transmission or engine. You can use a length of garden hose as a stethoscope to trace it down. Other possibilities could be a loose drivebelt, exhaust, or it's so cold out oil isn't getting to the valve train fast enough so it chatters till the oil arrives. Might consider an oil pan heater to keep the oil thin in cold weather.